Stone in Love

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the Zoo Crew as they spin the classic track "Stone in Love" by Journey from their iconic 1981 album Escape. This song, though not released as a single in the U.S., became a rock radio staple, celebrated for its nostalgic lyrics and Neal Schon’s electrifying guitar work, which many consider among his finest. According to a 2021 Musicology Blog post, the track captures the essence of youthful romance and endless summer nights, resonating deeply with fans for its infectious melody and Steve Perry’s soaring vocals. Fun fact: Schon reportedly nicknamed the riff “Stoned in Love” during its creation, hinting at its addictive, roll-down-the-windows energy, as noted in a 2023 Billboard article. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its inclusion in the 2010 film Grown Ups and the Rock Band video game series, cementing its status as a beloved classic.

Delving into the song’s creation, "Stone in Love" was co-written by Neal Schon, Steve Perry, and Jonathan Cain, who had just joined Journey as keyboardist for the Escape album, replacing founding member Gregg Rolie. A 2005 YouTube live performance from the 1981 Escape Tour in Houston showcases the band’s raw energy, with over 20,000 fans singing along, as documented by MTV. Fans on Reddit in 2023 shared stories of hearing Journey cover bands play the song in the early ’80s, evoking memories of high school concerts where the track’s guitar riffs and Perry’s voice felt larger than life. The song’s lyrics, like “Those summer nights are callin’,” evoke a universal longing for youth, making it a fan favorite on platforms like Last.fm, where users praise its timeless rock vibe.

Journey’s journey began in San Francisco in 1973, founded by former Santana members Neal Schon (guitar) and Gregg Rolie (keyboards, vocals), alongside Ross Valory (bass), George Tickner (rhythm guitar), and Prairie Prince (drums). Initially a jazz-fusion outfit, the band was managed by Herbie Herbert, who aimed to create a supergroup from Bay Area talent, as detailed on Wikipedia. Their early albums, like their 1975 self-titled debut, leaned progressive, but commercial success eluded them until Steve Perry joined as lead vocalist in 1977. Perry’s arrival, coupled with a shift toward melodic rock, transformed Journey into a powerhouse, with their 1978 album Infinity marking the start of their multi-platinum era. By the time Escape dropped in 1981, with Jonathan Cain’s songwriting and keyboard contributions, Journey had perfected their arena-rock sound, leading to their most successful album, certified Diamond by the RIAA.

Today, Journey remains a global phenomenon, with over 100 million records sold and a 2017 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Their official website, journeymusic.com, offers merch, tour dates, and exclusive content for fans. Connect with the band on social media via their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates and throwback posts. Fans, or “Journey Force,” can join vibrant communities like the Stone In Love - Journey Tribute Band Facebook page, which celebrates the band’s music through tribute performances. For deeper dives, check out fan-driven sites like Journey Band Wiki, where enthusiasts share detailed histories and song trivia. Keep rockin’ with the Zoo Crew, and let “Stone in Love” take you back to those crazy summer nights!